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February 9, 2005
happy year of the rooster!
today marks the beginning of Lunar New Year 4703. that's how long ago the Chinese started using the second New Moon after the winter solstice to mark the turn of the calendar. using an animal to represent each year is practical; you don't really need to remember what year you were born, just the animal (although my grandmother, bless her, isn't even sure which animal she is), and you can figure out someone's age without asking directly. also, unlike the Western linear calendar, this one is cyclical, going through 12 animals and 4 elements.
in case you don't have a Chinese zodiac paper placemat handy from your local take-out, you can check which animal you are here, or here, as well as your supposed personality traits and compatabilities with other animal signs.
meanwhile, i need to get started making my celebratory char siu bao, or steamed pork buns. yummy! gung hay fat choy... happy new year!
Posted by hadashi at February 9, 2005 3:55 PM
Comments
Happy New Year!!
Oooh steamed pork buns!!! I'm been waiting to eat those since the ill-fated trip from New York a few years ago when luggage got lost and the poor buns spoiled :( So sad.
Posted by: Marti 
at February 14, 2005 10:49 PM
i can't believe you remember that tragic incident. what a friend! maybe next time i visit i'll bring my bamboo steamer & we'll make some.
Posted by: hadashi at February 16, 2005 4:28 PM
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